Rifle barrel chamber mechanism. This drawing show a cup mechanism (top) and a needlepoint which were designed to expand the base of the bullet into the barrel rifling. Year: 1850. Image Credit: Smithsonian Neg. No. 91-10730; Harpers Ferry NHP Cat. No. 13646.

Drilling machine with three spindles, by James H. Burton, August 16, 1852. The drilling mechanism, which is belt-fed and stands upright, was probably used for locks and the like. Year: 1852. Image Credit: Smithsonian Neg. No. 91-10753CT; Harpers Ferry NHP Cat. No. 13655.

Minie rifle bullet and Bullet for a la tige musket. The bullet on the left has a cup that fit into a hallowed out recess, designed to expand the bullet into the barrel rifling. Year: 1850. Image Credit: Smithsonian Neg. No. 91-10746CT; Harpers Ferry NHP Cat. No. 13643.